Nurses commend government for law aimed at reducing dangerous toxics

Nurses commend government for law aimed at reducing dangerous toxics

TORONTO,
April 7, 2009 –
Ontario
nurses are applauding government legislation that would assist
businesses in reducing their reliance on harmful toxic substances and
protect the health of Ontarians where they live and work.

The
Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO) says the bill
provides a good framework but will be judged on the effectiveness of
regulations yet to come. The framework requires businesses to report
the toxic substances they use, create and release in their
manufacturing processes.

We’re alarmed at the scientific data that links cancer, birth defects,
medical conditions such as Parkinson’s and premature death to
toxics in the environment. That’s why this legislation is so
important because it aims to give people the protection they need and
deserve,” says Wendy Fucile, RNAO’s President. “We
know that the environment is a major determinant of health and people
flourish best when they live in clean, green environments,” adds
Fucile.

RNAO’s
Executive Director Doris Grinspun also praised the bill. “Every
day, nurses are engaged in health promotion, disease prevention, and
illness care. Our role is to help keep Ontarians healthy and today’s
announcement goes a long way towards realizing this goal.” But
Grinspun expressed concern that the bill’s implementation would
be delayed until after the next election. “People’s health is at
stake today. People are demanding action from our government and we
can’t afford to waste any time on this critical health issue.”

RNAO
will be looking for amendments that will strengthen the legislation
including, a provision that would guarantee the public’s right to
know about toxics in their environment, requirements for
manufacturers to use safer alternatives, and aggressive targets to
reduce the release of toxic substances into the environment. The
association also wants to see the creation of an independent body
that would assist companies in using greener alternatives, similar to
one in the State of Massachusetts. Ontario’s new law is modeled
after that state’s legislation.

The
Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO) is the
professional association representing registered nurses wherever they
practise in Ontario. Since 1925, RNAO has lobbied for healthy public
policy, promoted excellence in nursing practice, increased nurses’
contribution to shaping the health-care system, and influenced
decisions that affect nurses and the public they serve.